Tyler May - Conductor / Baritone Saxophone
Member since?
September 2016
How did you hear about/find us?
I came across the group while lurking through Facebook. My fake adopted mom Kathy Northam was a member, so next time I was at her house I asked her about it and decided I would come down and try it out. I instantly fell in love with the unique charm of the CCB and knew it was where I belong!
What is your musical background/history?
My first introduction to music was the school choir, which I was a member of from 1st to 5th grade. After that, I took guitar lessons for a year before switching to alto saxophone from 6th grade forward. At the end of 9th grade, I was asked to switch to bari sax, and felt a special connection to the low reed family. The next year I added contrabass clarinet to my repertoire. Along the way, I have picked up various additional instruments, such as the flute, clarinet, piano, and oddly enough, trombone. I began conducting last December with lessons from John Phillips and my high school band director sporadically.
What is your favorite “Band Song” to play?
Vehicle. Definitely Vehicle. This song is also the favorite of a lot of people in the band and I can feel the energy spark when we start playing it. Who knows, though - I'm very excited to start rehearsing Jurassic Park and I believe it could give Vehicle a run for its money.
What do you do when you are not playing music? (work/hobbies/for fun???)
-
For work, I am a host at Carrabba's near the Target in Shelby County. It pays for my gas and reeds, which is worth it to me.
-
For school, I am a senior at Oak Mountain High School. Once I graduate in May, I will be attending the University of Montevallo (go falcons!) to study music education and musical theatre. You haven't seen the last of me yet. Once I graduate from college, I'd like to find a school with a smaller band program for me to really create my own environment and make as much as an impact as possible.
-
For hobbies, I enjoy hiking, lurking in coffee shops, exploring to find interesting architecture, and spending time with my best friends and girlfriend.
What type of animal/breed of dog/cat/bird/fish/other etc…. best reflects your personality and why?
I've been told the animal I most relate to is a peacock. I'm not sure how much truth is behind that statement, but I can definitely get behind a peacock feather hat.
What is your superpower?
My band director look. You know the one.
Tell us something fun! You know, like “That one time at band camp…” Or elsewhere. (funny anecdote/story/amazing coincidence/hidden talent/celebrity encounter, etc…)
The longer I think about the question, the more stories I come up with. I can't choose just one so you guys will just have to hear them as I get distracted on the podium. ;)